Beanie and blanket drive to keep homeless warm

As winter approaches, Shani Wood, who lives in Durban North, is collecting beanies, blankets and jackets to assist the homeless when the weather gets colder. The donations can be dropped off at Hope’s Closet at the Spade design centre at 185 Lothian Road in Durban North from Monday to Saturday between 8am and 4pm. The deadline for donations is 18 May.

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For Woods, the collection is a way to offer the community a structured way to help the homeless.

“I believe that people see the need but are not always sure what they can do to assist or make a difference. I truly believe that together as a community we can make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate in our beautiful city. I pray that everyone chooses just one (or more) non-profit organisation and assist them where they can. Even just donating R 50 can make a difference collectively,” she added.

The initiative is Wood’s own individual project inspired by her volunteer work.

“I am a volunteer board member for a non profit organisation called Ridge Haven. Ridge Haven is a home for the elderly and people living with disabilities, many of whom previously lived in shelters. Spending time with these amazing people has inspired me to reach out and do more and partner with other non-profit organisations,” she said.

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Wood said she will collect the donations and make sure they are cleaned and in a good condition.

“Once the collections are completed I will hand the items out with some volunteers to the homeless on our city streets and in the various shelters,” she said.

To find out about similar initiatives, log onto Wood’s Facebook Page , Together for Durban.

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